Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A data storage device comprising: a disk; a head a head actuated over the disk; preamp circuitry coupled to the head, wherein the preamp circuitry comprises a preamp clock and a clock counter configured to count cycles of the preamp clock; and system circuitry coupled to the preamp circuit over a serial interface, wherein the system circuitry comprises a system clock and the system circuitry is configured to: transmit a start command over the serial interface to the preamp circuitry to begin counting a number of cycles of the preamp clock; receive a preamp command over the serial interface from the preamp circuitry, wherein the preamp command is based on the clock counter in the preamp circuitry; generate a frequency adjustment command based on the preamp command; and transmit the frequency adjustment command over the serial interface to the preamp circuitry in order to adjust a frequency of the preamp clock.
A data storage device includes a disk and a head actuated over the disk for reading and writing data. The device features preamp circuitry coupled to the head, which contains a preamp clock and a clock counter that tracks the cycles of the preamp clock. System circuitry is connected to the preamp circuitry via a serial interface and includes a system clock. The system circuitry initiates a start command to the preamp circuitry, triggering the clock counter to begin counting preamp clock cycles. The preamp circuitry sends a preamp command to the system circuitry, derived from the clock counter's count. The system circuitry then generates a frequency adjustment command based on the preamp command and transmits it back to the preamp circuitry. This adjustment modifies the frequency of the preamp clock, ensuring synchronization between the preamp and system clocks. The system enables precise timing control in data storage operations, addressing synchronization challenges between different clock domains in disk drives. The serial interface facilitates communication and clock adjustment, improving data integrity and performance.
2. The data storage device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the system circuitry is further configured to: transmit a stop command over the serial interface to the preamp circuitry to cause the preamp circuitry to generate the preamp command comprising a preamp clock count value based on the clock counter; and count a number of cycles of the system clock between the start command and the stop command.
A data storage device includes system circuitry and preamp circuitry connected via a serial interface. The system circuitry generates a start command to initiate a clock counter in the preamp circuitry, which increments the counter based on a preamp clock signal. The system circuitry then transmits a stop command to the preamp circuitry, causing it to generate a preamp command that includes a preamp clock count value derived from the clock counter. The system circuitry also counts the number of cycles of its own system clock between the start and stop commands. This mechanism allows the system circuitry to synchronize or compare timing between the system clock and the preamp clock, which is useful for managing data read/write operations in storage devices where precise timing alignment is critical. The preamp circuitry may include a clock counter that increments in response to the preamp clock signal, and the system circuitry may use the counted cycles to adjust timing parameters or verify synchronization between the two clock domains. This approach reduces the need for dedicated hardware synchronization circuits, improving efficiency and reducing complexity in the storage device.
3. The data storage device as recited in claim 2 , wherein the system circuitry is further configured to transmit the stop command to the preamp circuit after a predetermined number of cycles of the system clock.
A data storage device includes system circuitry and a preamp circuit for managing data operations. The system circuitry is configured to generate a stop command to halt the preamp circuit's operation. The stop command is transmitted after a predetermined number of cycles of the system clock, ensuring precise timing control over the preamp circuit's deactivation. This mechanism prevents premature or delayed shutdown, optimizing power efficiency and data integrity during read/write operations. The system circuitry may also monitor the preamp circuit's status and adjust the stop command timing dynamically based on operational conditions. The invention addresses the need for reliable and energy-efficient control of preamp circuits in data storage devices, particularly in high-performance or low-power applications where precise timing and power management are critical.
4. The data storage device as recited in claim 3 , wherein the system circuitry is further configured to generate the frequency adjustment command based on a difference between a target count value and the preamp clock count value.
The invention relates to data storage devices, specifically addressing the challenge of maintaining accurate timing synchronization in read/write operations. The system includes a preamplifier circuit that generates a preamp clock signal during data read operations, and system circuitry that monitors the frequency of this clock signal. The system circuitry compares the frequency of the preamp clock signal to a reference frequency to generate a preamp clock count value. If the preamp clock count value deviates from a target count value, the system circuitry generates a frequency adjustment command to adjust the frequency of the preamp clock signal. This adjustment ensures that the preamp clock signal remains synchronized with the data read operations, improving data integrity and reliability. The system may also include a phase-locked loop (PLL) or other clock generation circuitry to generate the preamp clock signal, and the frequency adjustment command may be used to adjust the PLL or other clock generation circuitry to correct the frequency. The invention is particularly useful in high-speed data storage devices where precise timing is critical for accurate data retrieval.
5. The data storage device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the system circuitry is further configured to count a number of cycles of the system clock between the start command and receiving the preamp command over the serial interface from the preamp circuitry.
Technical Summary: This invention relates to data storage devices, specifically improving communication and synchronization between system circuitry and preamp circuitry in such devices. The problem addressed is ensuring accurate timing and coordination between these components, which is critical for reliable data storage and retrieval operations. The invention involves a data storage device with system circuitry and preamp circuitry connected via a serial interface. The system circuitry is configured to issue a start command to the preamp circuitry and subsequently receive a preamp command over the serial interface. To enhance synchronization, the system circuitry counts the number of cycles of a system clock between the transmission of the start command and the receipt of the preamp command. This counting mechanism allows the system to precisely measure the time delay between these events, enabling better timing control and coordination between the system circuitry and preamp circuitry. The counting of clock cycles provides a method to track and adjust for any timing discrepancies that may arise during communication, ensuring that the data storage device operates efficiently and reliably. This feature is particularly useful in high-speed storage systems where precise timing is essential for maintaining data integrity and performance. The invention improves the overall functionality of the data storage device by reducing timing-related errors and enhancing the synchronization between its key components.
6. The data storage device as recited in claim 5 , wherein the system circuitry is further configured to generate the frequency adjustment command based on a difference between a target count value and the counted number of cycles of the system clock.
A data storage device includes system circuitry that monitors and adjusts the frequency of a system clock to improve performance and reliability. The system circuitry counts the number of cycles of the system clock over a defined period and compares this count to a target count value. If there is a difference between the counted cycles and the target value, the system circuitry generates a frequency adjustment command to modify the system clock frequency. This adjustment ensures the clock operates within a desired frequency range, preventing errors and maintaining synchronization with other system components. The system circuitry may also include a phase-locked loop (PLL) or other clock generation circuitry to implement the frequency adjustment. The target count value can be preconfigured or dynamically adjusted based on system requirements. This mechanism helps stabilize clock signals in data storage devices, particularly in environments where clock drift or variations in operating conditions could affect performance. The invention is applicable to solid-state drives, hard disk drives, or other storage systems where precise clock control is critical for data integrity and operational efficiency.
7. Preamp circuitry for use in a data storage device, the preamp circuitry comprising: a preamp clock; a clock counter configured to count cycles of the preamp clock; and control circuitry configured to: receive a start command over a serial interface; begin counting a number of cycles of the preamp clock; transmit over the serial interface a preamp command based on the clock counter in the preamp circuitry; receive over the serial interface a frequency adjustment command; and adjust a frequency of the preamp clock based on the frequency adjustment command.
The invention relates to preamplifier (preamp) circuitry used in data storage devices, such as hard disk drives or solid-state drives, to manage data read/write operations. A key challenge in such devices is ensuring precise timing and synchronization of preamp operations, which are critical for reliable data transfer. The disclosed preamp circuitry addresses this by incorporating a dedicated preamp clock and a clock counter to track clock cycles, enabling accurate timing control. The circuitry includes control logic that interfaces with a serial communication channel to receive commands. Upon receiving a start command, the control logic initiates counting of preamp clock cycles. Based on the clock counter's output, it generates and transmits preamp commands over the serial interface, ensuring synchronized operation. Additionally, the control logic supports dynamic frequency adjustment by receiving a frequency adjustment command over the serial interface and modifying the preamp clock's frequency accordingly. This allows the preamp circuitry to adapt to varying operational conditions, such as changes in data transfer rates or environmental factors, while maintaining precise timing. The invention improves the reliability and flexibility of preamp operations in data storage devices by integrating clock-based timing control and frequency adjustment capabilities within the preamp circuitry itself, reducing dependency on external timing sources.
8. The preamp circuitry as recited in claim 7 , wherein the control circuitry is further configured to transmit the preamp command after the clock counter reaches a predetermined value.
A preamplifier (preamp) circuit is used in data storage systems, such as hard disk drives, to amplify weak signals read from a storage medium. A common challenge is ensuring accurate signal amplification while minimizing power consumption and noise. Existing preamp circuits may lack precise timing control for command transmission, leading to inefficiencies or errors in data retrieval. The invention improves preamp circuitry by incorporating control circuitry that delays the transmission of a preamp command until a clock counter reaches a predetermined value. The preamp circuitry includes a clock generator that produces a clock signal, and a clock counter that increments based on this signal. The control circuitry monitors the counter and only sends the preamp command once the counter reaches a specified threshold. This ensures that the command is issued at an optimal time, improving synchronization and reducing errors in signal processing. The predetermined value can be adjusted based on system requirements, allowing flexibility in timing control. This feature enhances the reliability and efficiency of data read operations in storage devices.
9. The preamp circuitry as recited in claim 8 , wherein the preamp command latches a cycle count value of a system clock.
A preamplifier circuit is designed to interface with a storage device, such as a hard disk drive or solid-state drive, to amplify and condition read signals from the storage medium. A key challenge in such systems is accurately synchronizing the preamplifier's operations with the system clock to ensure reliable data retrieval. This invention addresses this issue by incorporating a preamp command feature that latches a cycle count value of the system clock. The preamp command is part of a control mechanism that manages the preamplifier's functions, including signal amplification, equalization, and output buffering. The latched cycle count value allows precise timing synchronization between the preamplifier and the system clock, ensuring that data read operations are performed at the correct intervals. This synchronization is critical for maintaining data integrity and minimizing errors during read operations. The preamplifier circuit may also include additional components, such as a read channel interface for communicating with the storage device and a power management module to regulate power consumption. By latching the system clock cycle count, the preamplifier can dynamically adjust its operations to match the system's timing requirements, improving overall performance and reliability. This feature is particularly useful in high-speed storage systems where precise timing is essential for accurate data retrieval.
10. The preamp circuitry as recited in claim 9 , wherein the frequency adjustment command is based on a difference between a target count value and the cycle count value of the system clock.
A preamp circuitry system is designed to optimize signal amplification in electronic devices, particularly in applications where precise frequency control is critical. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining stable signal amplification while dynamically adjusting to varying operational conditions. The circuitry includes a frequency adjustment mechanism that modifies the amplification characteristics based on a comparison between a target count value and the actual cycle count value of the system clock. This comparison generates a frequency adjustment command, which fine-tunes the preamp's performance to ensure accurate signal processing. The system may also incorporate a feedback loop to continuously monitor and adjust the amplification parameters, enhancing overall system reliability and efficiency. By dynamically aligning the system clock's cycle count with the target value, the preamp circuitry ensures consistent signal integrity across different operating environments. This approach is particularly useful in high-precision applications where signal distortion or frequency drift could compromise performance. The invention provides a robust solution for maintaining optimal amplification while adapting to real-time operational demands.
11. A method of operating a data storage device, the method comprising: transmitting a start command over a serial interface to preamp circuitry to begin counting a number of cycles of a preamp clock within the preamp circuitry; receiving a preamp command over the serial interface from the preamp circuitry, wherein the preamp command is based on a clock counter in the preamp circuitry configured to count cycles of the preamp clock; generating a frequency adjustment command based on the preamp command; transmitting the frequency adjustment command over the serial interface to the preamp circuitry in order to adjust a frequency of the preamp clock; and using the preamp clock to write data to a disk using a head.
This invention relates to data storage devices, specifically methods for adjusting the frequency of a preamp clock in a hard disk drive (HDD) to improve data writing accuracy. The problem addressed is maintaining precise timing synchronization between the preamp circuitry and the host system during data writing operations, which is critical for reliable data storage. The method involves a serial interface communication protocol between the host system and the preamp circuitry. The process begins by transmitting a start command to initiate a clock cycle counter within the preamp circuitry. The preamp circuitry then generates a preamp command based on the counted cycles of the preamp clock. This command is sent back to the host system, which uses it to generate a frequency adjustment command. The host transmits this adjustment command to the preamp circuitry to modify the preamp clock frequency, ensuring optimal synchronization. The adjusted preamp clock is then used to control the write head, enabling accurate data writing to the disk. This approach dynamically adjusts the preamp clock frequency based on real-time feedback, reducing timing errors and improving data integrity during write operations. The serial interface facilitates efficient communication between the host and preamp circuitry, enabling precise clock synchronization without requiring additional hardware.
12. The method as recited in claim 11 , further comprising: transmitting a stop command over the serial interface to the preamp circuitry to cause the preamp circuitry to generate the preamp command comprising a preamp clock count value based on the clock counter; and counting a number of cycles of a system clock between the start command and the stop command.
This invention relates to a method for controlling preamplifier (preamp) circuitry in a data storage system, particularly for managing clock synchronization during read operations. The problem addressed is ensuring accurate timing control of the preamp circuitry to properly process data signals from a storage medium, such as a magnetic disk, while minimizing errors due to clock misalignment. The method involves transmitting a start command over a serial interface to the preamp circuitry, which initiates a clock counter to begin tracking system clock cycles. The preamp circuitry then generates a preamp command that includes a preamp clock count value derived from the clock counter. This count value is used to synchronize the preamp circuitry with the system clock, ensuring precise timing for signal amplification and processing. Additionally, the method includes transmitting a stop command over the serial interface to halt the clock counting process. The system then counts the number of system clock cycles that occurred between the start and stop commands. This interval measurement helps verify the timing accuracy of the preamp command and ensures proper synchronization between the preamp circuitry and the system clock. The method may also involve adjusting the preamp command based on the measured clock cycles to optimize performance and reduce errors in data read operations.
13. The method as recited in claim 12 , further comprising transmitting the stop command to the preamp circuit after a predetermined number of cycles of the system clock.
A system and method for controlling a preamplifier circuit in a data storage device, such as a hard disk drive, addresses the problem of signal degradation and power consumption during read operations. The invention involves monitoring the preamplifier circuit to detect a stop condition, such as a loss of signal or an error condition, and generating a stop command to deactivate the preamplifier circuit. This reduces unnecessary power consumption and prevents signal distortion. The method includes synchronizing the stop command with the system clock to ensure proper timing and reliability. Additionally, the stop command is transmitted to the preamplifier circuit after a predetermined number of system clock cycles, allowing for a controlled shutdown process. This ensures that the preamplifier circuit is deactivated in a manner that avoids abrupt disruptions to the read operation. The invention improves energy efficiency and signal integrity in data storage devices by dynamically managing the preamplifier circuit's operation based on real-time conditions.
14. The method as recited in claim 13 , further comprising generating the frequency adjustment command based on a difference between a target count value and the preamp clock count value.
Technical Summary: This invention relates to clock signal adjustment in electronic systems, particularly for optimizing performance in data processing or communication applications. The problem addressed involves maintaining precise timing synchronization between components, such as between a preamplifier and a system clock, to ensure reliable data transfer and processing. The method involves monitoring a preamplifier clock signal to determine its count value, which represents the frequency or phase of the signal. This count value is compared against a target count value, which defines the desired clock characteristics for optimal system operation. The difference between these values is used to generate a frequency adjustment command. This command is then applied to adjust the preamplifier clock signal, bringing it into alignment with the target specifications. The adjustment ensures that the clock signal meets the required timing parameters, improving system stability and data integrity. The method may also include additional steps such as initializing the preamplifier clock, setting the target count value, and continuously monitoring the clock signal to detect deviations. By dynamically adjusting the clock frequency based on real-time comparisons, the system can compensate for environmental factors, component variations, or operational changes that might otherwise disrupt synchronization. This approach is particularly useful in high-speed data transmission, digital signal processing, and other applications where precise timing is critical.
15. The method as recited in claim 11 , further comprising counting a number of cycles of a system clock between the start command and receiving the preamp command over the serial interface from the preamp circuitry.
A method for monitoring and controlling a preamplifier (preamp) circuit in a data storage system, such as a hard disk drive, addresses the need for precise timing and synchronization between a host system and the preamp. The preamp circuitry amplifies read/write signals from the storage medium, and proper coordination between the host and preamp is critical for reliable data operations. The method involves sending a start command to the preamp circuitry over a serial interface, followed by receiving a preamp command from the preamp circuitry. To ensure accurate timing, the method includes counting the number of system clock cycles that occur between the transmission of the start command and the reception of the preamp command. This measurement allows the system to assess communication latency, verify proper synchronization, and optimize performance. The method may also include adjusting timing parameters based on the measured cycle count to improve reliability and efficiency. Additionally, the system may detect errors or misalignments in the communication sequence by analyzing the cycle count, enabling corrective actions if necessary. This approach enhances the robustness of data storage operations by ensuring precise timing control between the host and preamp circuitry.
16. The method as recited in claim 15 , further comprising generating the frequency adjustment command based on a difference between a target count value and the counted number of cycles of the system clock.
A system and method for adjusting the frequency of a system clock in a computing or electronic device. The system clock provides timing signals for synchronizing operations within the device. A common problem in such systems is maintaining precise timing to ensure reliable performance, especially in applications requiring high accuracy, such as telecommunications, data processing, or real-time control systems. Frequency drift or inaccuracies in the system clock can lead to errors, synchronization issues, or degraded performance. The invention addresses this problem by dynamically adjusting the system clock frequency to maintain synchronization with a target timing reference. The method involves counting the number of cycles of the system clock over a defined period and comparing this counted value to a target count value, which represents the expected number of cycles for that period under ideal conditions. A frequency adjustment command is then generated based on the difference between the target count value and the actual counted value. This adjustment command modifies the system clock's frequency to reduce or eliminate the discrepancy, ensuring the clock operates at the desired frequency. The adjustment mechanism may involve phase-locked loop (PLL) control, direct digital synthesis (DDS), or other frequency modulation techniques. The system may also include feedback loops to continuously monitor and refine the clock's accuracy. This approach ensures that the system clock remains synchronized with external or internal timing references, improving overall system reliability and performance.
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October 29, 2019
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